One of the topics was Kristen Russell’s presentation from Kier’s Engineering and Design concerning the area in need of redevelopment study for Block 2918 North. This study targeted seven lots at the southwest corner of Styverson Avenue and Roosevelt Avenue, where zoning currently permits various uses, including retail and residential units. Russell detailed the historical stasis of the area since 1954 and outlined the criteria under local redevelopment and housing law that qualify an area for redevelopment. She emphasized that properties need not meet all criteria to be considered, citing issues like building vacancies and municipal land ownership as qualifying factors.

The study revealed that some lots, such as the former Chia Restaurant and a vacant office building, qualified for redevelopment due to design deficiencies and prolonged vacancy. However, concerns arose regarding why certain adjacent lots were omitted from the study. In response, Russell explained the lack of coordination with property owners as the reason for their exclusion. The board was tasked with reviewing the study’s findings and deciding whether to recommend the area for redevelopment designation to the governing body.

Community concerns were prominently voiced, particularly about the former site of the restaurant Trophies. A resident highlighted safety, parking, and traffic challenges, especially during school pick-up times, and questioned the adequacy of the redevelopment plan in addressing these issues. The resident criticized the lack of communication from the town regarding redevelopment plans, resulting in widespread frustration over potential large-scale developments encroaching on the neighborhood.

Further complicating matters, residents like Brian Scarpolini called for assurances regarding traffic management, emphasizing the need for comprehensive studies to evaluate the implications of redevelopment. It was confirmed that a downtown traffic study had been authorized, which would address these concerns prior to planning approvals.

Ownership and zoning were additional points of contention, as residents sought clarity on who would develop the area and how commercial zoning might affect residential communities. Concerns about the potential encroachment into single-family neighborhoods were voiced, alongside calls to maintain the community’s character. A property owner expressed worries about the safety of exiting a municipal parking lot, stressing the need for careful consideration of traffic flow.

During the meeting, several residents, such as Anita Sha, raised issues about notification processes for the redevelopment study. There was a call for improved communication, with suggestions to move beyond traditional newspaper announcements to more direct methods of community engagement.

Another notable topic was the proposal for a mixed-use development on Springfield Avenue. The application sought approval to convert a one-story restaurant into a two-story building, introducing a three-bedroom apartment above. The proposal raised parking concerns, as the location currently lacks dedicated parking spaces. The applicant, Diana Yun, emphasized her motivations rooted in personal need rather than profit, stating her project aimed to provide income to support her disabled child. Despite her assurances and the existing street parking availability, the board required additional parking arrangements as a condition of approval, proposing shared parking agreements with neighboring properties or the use of municipal lots.

Finally, the meeting concluded with discussions on an application for a property on Liberty Avenue, involving the relocation of Crossroads, a company specializing in blending food ingredients. The proposal included minor exterior changes and an increased building footprint. The board scrutinized operational aspects like noise, truck traffic, and community impact. Owner Serge Carakash assured that operations would maintain minimal disruption, with limited truck visits and no overnight parking. The board approved the application, emphasizing the importance of community consideration in future operations.